Blocked Drain FAQ's in North Shore
What causes blocked drains in older North Shore properties?
Tree root intrusion into aging terracotta or clay pipes is the most common cause in established suburbs. Fine roots enter microscopic cracks, expand over time, and trap debris. Hair, soap scum, and Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) buildup in kitchen and bathroom lines are equally frequent. Foreign objects like sanitary products flushed down toilets also cause blockages; if the obstruction is severe or involves structural pipe damage, we explain repair or relining options after CCTV inspection confirms the cause.
How do you locate and clear a drain blockage?
We use high-definition CCTV inspection equipment to identify the blockage type, depth, and exact location within your property boundary. Once confirmed, high-pressure jetting (hydro-jetting) is used to pulverise roots and scour grease from pipe walls at pressures between 3,000 and 5,000 PSI, restoring flow without digging in most cases. Mechanical drain snakes are used for specific foreign objects. After clearing, we verify flow is restored by running water through the system and checking the camera feed if needed.
What should I do if sewage is backing up inside my home?
Sewage backflow is an emergency due to health risks and property damage potential. Stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately to prevent further backflow, then call us on 1800 349 338 for immediate dispatch. Don't attempt to clear it yourself with store-bought chemicals, as they can worsen the blockage or damage pipes. We'll prioritise your job, dispatch the nearest available plumber, and provide an ETA when you book. The immediate goal is stopping the backflow by clearing the obstruction or isolating the affected section.
Can tree roots be removed without digging up my property?
Yes, in most cases. High-pressure water jetting can pulverise root masses and restore flow without excavation. If CCTV inspection shows the roots have caused structural pipe damage (cracks or collapsed sections), trenchless drain relining is often viable, a resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe and cured in place, creating a seamless interior surface that roots can't penetrate. Excavation is only required if the pipe has completely collapsed or relining isn't suitable for the pipe material and condition.
How much does it cost to clear a drain blockage in North Shore?
The cost depends on the blockage location, severity, access, and whether structural damage exists. After CCTV inspection confirms the cause, we provide a fixed-price quote before starting the work. The price is by the job, not by the hour, and doesn't change once you agree to proceed. For many service areas there's no call-out fee; confirm the call-out fee status for North Shore when you book. If inspection reveals damage requiring repair or relining, those options are explained and quoted separately.
What's involved in a CCTV drain inspection?
A high-definition camera mounted on a flexible cable is fed into the drain through an access point (cleanout, inspection opening, or via the affected fixture). The camera transmits live footage showing the pipe interior, blockage type, exact location, and any structural damage like cracks or root intrusion. This allows us to confirm what's required to clear it without guessing. The inspection is included as part of the diagnostic process, and findings are explained before we provide the fixed-price quote for clearing or repair work.
How quickly can you get to North Shore for an emergency?
We dispatch from nearby hubs in West Sydney, Dolans Bay, and Ruse, prioritising urgent jobs and allocating the nearest available technician. An ETA is provided when you book, and when we arrive depends on current job allocation and traffic conditions. For active emergencies like sewage backflow or broken pipes causing flooding, we aim to get someone onsite as quickly as logistics allow. Same-day service is available for standard plumbing enquiries; call 1800 349 338 to confirm booking availability and timing.
Do you provide a warranty on drainage work?
Yes, all workmanship is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty. This covers the quality of the repair, clearing, or installation work we complete. If a blockage recurs due to our workmanship, we return and rectify it at no additional cost. The warranty does not cover new blockages caused by subsequent root growth, FOG buildup, or foreign objects introduced after the work is completed. Manufacturer warranties apply separately to any hardware or materials used (such as relining materials or replacement pipe sections).
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to clear a blockage myself?
Chemical drain cleaners can clear minor surface blockages but should be used sparingly. They contain harsh acids or alkalis that corrode pipes over time, especially older metal pipes. They're also ineffective against root intrusion or structural blockages and can worsen the problem by hardening grease into a solid mass. For persistent or recurring blockages, professional clearing with hydro-jetting or CCTV-guided methods is safer and more effective. If you've already used chemicals and the blockage persists, mention it when booking so we're aware.
What happens if the blockage is in a shared sewer line?
If CCTV inspection shows the blockage is beyond your property boundary in a shared or council-owned section, we'll explain the responsibility boundary so you can coordinate with your strata manager (for strata properties) or local council (for council-owned mains). We can often still clear the blockage to restore immediate function, then provide documentation of findings for your strata or council submission. In strata buildings, blockages in common-property lines are typically the body corporate's responsibility, while blockages within your lot boundary are yours.